Defining your own success

Defining your own success — that’s the difference between people who walk this earth happy and fulfilled, and those who constantly chase a finish line they never set.

Before I set out on any goal or project, I try to define my expectations (thank you @johnmayer for inspiring me to do this in your 2008 seminar at Berklee).

If I connect with just one person, inspire someone, reach 1,000 streams or sell 5 CDs — that’s success. That’s impact. I wholeheartedly admit that I’m very privileged. A few years ago, I was only dreaming of playing shows, releasing music and doing this full time. Now, I’m actually living it and learning something new, every single day.

I personally define “making it” as making pop songs for as many people as possible, putting my heart and soul into my creative practice, connecting with people, and growing into a leader and innovator along the way, making an impact.

Sure, some days my mental health takes a hit, and some days I can barely get out of bed. But I still show up, because I want to make the most out of my privilege and make the world a better place. I think that matters more than anything.

If you’re chasing something of your own, I hope you take a second to define what ‘making it’ looks like for you. You might already be living it.